Perth’s best record stores
Wax on, wax off.
Here are the best record stores in Perth.
Dada Records
One of Perth’s – if not Australia’s – longest running independent record stores, entering Dada’s is like walking into a slice of history. Operating since 1971, and in its current CBD location since the 80’s, Dada’s has remained unchanged for decades – including Rob sitting behind the counter. Except, of course, for the constant influx of new stock. Boasting one of the southern hemisphere’s largest record collections, with both new releases and second hand vinyl, you’ll leave with your arms full of old favourites as well as new discoveries.
36 Pier Street, Perth
The Record Finder
Speaking of crate digging… the crate digger’s mecca might just be The Record Finder. Another long-established vinyl dealer that’s been operating since 1966, this is where to get that hard-to-find vintage title or browse their collection of second hand cassettes. You might pay a premium, but for a one-of-a-kind find, it’ll be worth it.
43 High Street, Fremantle
Mills Records
In what turns out to be a theme for this list – Mills has been around for yonks. Like, truly yonks: since 1945 to be precise. Staffed by an impressive roster of Perth music personalities, you need to make sure to have a chat to whoever’s behind the counter. No matter your taste, they’ll find you a hidden gem.
22 Adelaide Street, Fremantle
Shari-Vari Records
Shari-Vari has gone from strength to strength since opening with a modest online selection back in 2021, expanding to a couple of shelves in the suitably stylish Man-tle in Northbridge before making his home in the subterranean stores of the luxe State Buildings. Specialising in ambient, experimental, house, techno, dub, reggae and outernational styles – rare releases, hidden gems and iconic sounds abound.
State Buildings, Corner St Georges Terrace and Barrack Street, Perth
Safari’s Record Shack
On the hustling and bustling William Street, and sharing a shop space with florist Stacey, Safari’s is a real delight with a funky flavour. Specialising in funk, soul, jazz, disco vibes and more, a chat with owner John is a requirement – he’s a walking encyclopaedia. These guys also don’t take commission on local releases, so you know if you buy a local record, their money is going straight to the artist. Legends!
312B William Street, Northbridge
Rhubarb Records
Family operation Rhubarb Records has quickly made a name for itself since its humble beginnings, starting out at local record and vintage fairs in 2013. Now located in East Vic Park, these guys will hook you up with everything from new and used vinyl, to cassettes, turntables and more.
Shop 5/851 Albany Highway, East Victoria Park
Midland Records
It may be a little further out of the way than some of the spots on this list, but Midland Records is more than worth the journey! Found within the same building as Midland Vintage (also very much worth the trip), Midland Records’ collection is one of the biggest in the State. You could spend hours or even days sifting through their massive range of new and used vinyl releases. They’ve also got plenty of vinyl accessories, and are a fantastic resource to find rare records and have them ordered in.
7 Spring Park Road, Midland
Vinyl Cafe
A licensed cafe and a vinyl store? We’d call that a match made in heaven! As well as an extensive selection of local and international records, the cafe also hosts frequent live music, art, and even vinyl cutting workshops – not to mention an in-house barber. In May of 2023, they’ll be moving down the road to bigger and better digs in the new Foundry development at 636 Newcastle Street, Leederville.
18B/663 Newcastle Street, Leederville
Diabolik Books and Records
In spite of being predominantly a book store, Diabolik has a tidy selection of records available. Spanning across genres from jazz, psych, disco and everything in between – as well as a great selection of special edition soundtracks, and super helpful staff, to boot. For the real crate diggers, drop by on Saturdays for the second hand sellers set up out the front of the store.
149 Scarborough Beach Road, Mount Hawthorn
Urban Records
Audiophiles need look no further. Urban Records is home to not just an enviable collection of fresh new-release vinyl, but declare themselves the home of WA’s biggest selection of record players. With brands like Pro-Ject, Audio-Technica, Marley, Crosley, M-Beat and Rega, they’ll sort you out no matter your budget or style.
117 Oxford Street, Leederville
Highgate Continental
Record connoisseurs will need no introduction to Highgate Continental. Stocking unique musical finds and esoteric books on art, design, culture and more, this is the destination for everything cool and interesting. They’ve closed their retail space (for now!) but check them out online.
Junction Records
Whether you’re looking for something brand-spankin’ new or a pre-loved gem, Junction Records has a huge selection across a range of genres and formats. Local legends and international imports, cds and vinyl – it’s easy to while away an afternoon here searching for something unique.
Shop 48, 27-35 William Street, Fremantle
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Replay Records
It’s hard to miss Replay Records, with its iconic retro signage standing out amongst the Royal Street street scape. Established in 1989 by collectors, the family business is a haven for collectors – with an astronomical selection of old and new vinyl that traverses just about every genre imagineable.
5 Royal Street, Kenwick
Low End Therapy
While we wouldn’t dare presume to inform anyone about streetwear success story Highs and Lows, their slow-living lifestyle brand Low End Therapy flies a little more under the radar. The range includes design-conscious homewares, art, books, accessories, local coffee and a healthy selection of vinyl that runs the genre gamut.
75 King Street, Perth
Header Image Credit: Safari’s Record Shack